Military Courses and Services

Military Courses and Services

Lessons & LiveryThe Saddle Club aims to encourage equestrianism in the military by offering reduced rates for serving personnel and their dependants. Discounts are available on full/DIY livery and tuition with one of our qualified instructors, while children can enjoy numerous Pony Club activities at a fraction of the cost of a civilian club.

All Royal Armoured Corps (RAC) soldiers who come to Bovington to complete their Phase 2 training before joining their regiments are also welcome to take advantage of reduced military rates.

And you don’t have to own your own horse to visit or become a member — we have a large variety of safe horses for all abilities, some of which hail from the Household Cavalry.

Bespoke Courses & EventsThe Club can arrange bespoke courses for any ability; from basic equitation courses for young soldiers to bespoke individual tuition. For example, Major-General Edward Smyth-Osborne CBE undertook an intensive training in preparation for his ceremonial duties as General Officer Ccommanding London District in 2013. The Army Navy Show Jump team also visit regularly to use the Club’s facilities for training and competition. The Mounted Section of the Avon and Somerset Constabulary have also used the Club’s facilities several times — we love to offer a helping hand to horses who work hard and frequently have to travel long distances for a living.

Spurs CourseOur Spurs Course helps introduce young RAC Troop leaders to the tradition of riding before joining their Regiments. The lessons take place for the duration of the Troop Leaders’ Course and are always very well received. A presentation set of spurs is awarded to the most improved Troop leader.

Stable Hand CoursesMilitary personnel are welcome to spend time with the horses and learn about stable management. Some Phase 2 soldiers spend some time lending a hand with everyday duties such as mucking out simply to improve their fitness! In return we teach them a few things about stable care and horsemanship giving them the chance to get in the saddle and take up the reins when they arrive at Regimental duty.

Troop R&R & Support for FamiliesOperational deployments are hard on everyone involved. We can tailor Rest & Recuperation courses for troops or individuals returning from combat operations to help them adjust and decompress. Meanwhile, lessons, morning coffee, and the mundane chores like grooming and caring for the horses, can help provide a welcome distraction for many military families when loved ones are deployed overseas.